9 Most Laid-Back Towns in Sweden

For travelers yearning for a destination that is not too busy but not too isolated, Sweden has a handful of small towns radiating with the art of simple living. Sweden even has a concept for their own way of living called lagom. Lagom means “not too much, not too little” and is the Swedish ideal that happiness in life is all about having balance across all aspects of our lives. Not only will the beautiful landscapes be a breath of fresh air, but the locals' blissful energy will keep visitors at ease.

Sweden is the largest Nordic country and the fifth largest country in all of Europe. It is located on the Scandinavian peninsula and divided into 21 counties that scream outdoor beauty. There are nearly 100,000 fresh-flowing lakes, and two-thirds of the country is flourishing in lush forests. For those looking for a relaxing yet still exciting escape, look no further than the beautiful country of Sweden.

Sigtuna

It seems only right to kick off the list with Sigtuna, the oldest town in Sweden. Sigtuna was founded in the 10th century between Uppsala, and Sweden’s capital Stockholm. The town might be quaint, but the history is rich. The first coin in Sweden was made in Sigatuna, and it is also the birthplace of the Sigtuna Princess Ingegerd. Throughout the town, visitors will pass by old charming churches and houses, but the most fascinating thing is the abundance of runestones. Sigtuna is known for being populated with so many runestones that it is like a treasure hunt.

The town's ideal position next to Lake Mälaren makes it perfect for outdoor activities. Enjoy a relaxing lakeside walk with a cup of coffee or do yoga in the park. Alternatively, visit Klockbacken, a park featuring designated paths and a barbeque area, ideal for enjoying the natural surroundings.

Visby

Discover the charming medieval town of Visby on Gotland's northwest coast, the largest island in the Baltic Sea. Well-preserved since the 12th century, Visby features streets lined with beautiful buildings from the 12th to 14th centuries, leaving visitors in awe. The town also offers numerous historic church ruins, including St Clemens, St Nicolai, and Drotten’s remains. During summer, Visby becomes a floral paradise, bursting with roses and offering a perfect setting to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Visby also has numerous sandy beaches to feed that beach craving. Visitors can relax on the bathing jetty by the beach walk in central Visby, or a popular spot 20 kilometers south of Visby is Tofta beach. For an elevated view of Visby, there is a lovely hike only seven kilometers south of town where visitors can get immersed in unreal caves, cliffs, and forests.

Kiruna

Kiruna leaves a touch of magic in everyone who visits. Situated 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, this small town offers views of Sweden’s highest peak, Kebnekaise. In summer, Kiruna has about two months of midnight sun, making it perfect for watching the northern lights from September to March. Its varied landscapes attract outdoor lovers seeking immersion in nature and solitude away from crowds. The area features rivers, birch forests, wetlands, and mountains, ideal for activities like hiking, fishing, skiing, and snowshoeing. Visitors should also explore Abisko National Park and Vadvetjåkka National Park, both nearby.

Ystad

Situated on Sweden’s south coast is the adorable town of Ystad. This town is famous for being the location for the popular crime series Mankell’s Wallander. Ystad is a very walkable town, making it easy to bounce between restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops. The charming town center is paved with cobblestones and shines with vibrant colors and elegant architecture. It’s the perfect spot to aimlessly roam and people-watch. Visitors will also see the Ystad Town Hall and St. Mary’s Church in the heart of the town center. A fascinating attraction to visit is Ales Stenar, also known as the Stones of Ale or the Swedish Stonehenge. About a ten-minute drive from Ystad, visitors can admire the best-preserved ship monument in Scandinavia. Ales Stenar is made up of 59 stones, measuring 67 meters long and 19 meters wide. This unique site, in the outline of a boat, offers a stunning coastal view and is a spot visitors never knew they needed to add to their bucket list.

Kalmar

Kalmar sits on Sweden's southeast coast, in the province of Småland. This town calls all outdoor adventure enthusiasts to explore its beaches, forests, wide-open landscapes, and the waters of the Baltic Sea. Kalmarsundsleden, a popular trail in Kalmar, invites hikers and bikers to follow 200 kilometers of open-country roads and a delightful coastline. Travelers can also take a direct ferry to the nearby island of Öland, making for a bonus adventure. Wandering through the cobblestone streets draws everyone's attention to the many preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. History shines bright here, with Kalmar Castle as a prominent symbol of the town. Kalmar is also proud to be known for producing sustainable cuisine that is both delicious and sourced locally. Visitors should not leave without trying a Swedish cinnamon bun, a true mouthwatering delight.

Vadstena

The town of Vadstena is one of the world's pilgrimage destinations, making it a great spot to step right into the earth's natural beauty. There are many connecting hiking trails to and from Vadstena that pass through medieval church villages, country fields, and along the coastline of Lake Vättern. Visitors can stay in town and walk the Vadstena promenade, bike around town, or hike farther by traveling east along the coast on the Borghamn - Vadstena trail. While in the heart of Vadstena, travelers will find themselves among historical castles, authentic courtyards, and medieval abbeys. Some historical buildings include Vadstena Castle from 1545 and Vadstena’s Abbey, which is one of the largest medieval church buildings in Sweden. The clicking of shoes on the cobblestone streets and the surroundings of old wooden, preserved buildings fill the air with the energy of simple living and allow visitors to travel with tranquility.

Trosa

Just a 50-minute drive south of Stockholm is the colorful town of Troso, formerly a key fishing hamlet. Gästhamnen, the guest harbor, is a spot full of life. Visitors can watch sailboats coast on the clear blue waters, rent a bicycle, stroll through shops, or sit down and enjoy a cozy meal. Renting a kayak and paddling right in the canals of Troso is a great way to admire the town's architecture and vibrant spirit. For a bigger water excursion, paddle out into the archipelago for an experience of a lifetime. On this navigation channel from Troso is where travelers will be welcomed by beautiful islands and rock formations to lay on and take a snack break. For exploration on foot, Troso includes stages 53-56 of the 94 total hiking trails of Sörmlandsleden. Some other scenic trails in Troso include, Åda Wild Boar Trail, Ekhagen’s nature trail, and the Heritage Trail city walk right in town.

Lysekil

Nestled in the heart of the West Sweden archipelago on the Bohuslän coast, Lysekil is a charming seaside town. It boasts well-preserved architecture and plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy its charm by strolling along Gamla Strandgatan, the oldest street in Lysekil, which passes through Gamlestan—the town’s historic district. This area is filled with cozy old homes, narrow alleys, and cobblestone streets dating back to the 16th century. For fresh ocean air, visitors should head to Lysekil’s tip to explore Stångehuvud. Established as a nature reserve in 1982, Stångehuvud features Bohus granite, formed over 920 million years ago. Today, it’s a stunning landscape of soft-shaped granite, sculpted by waves and winds over time. After a picnic on the granite rocks, visitors can walk the 1100-meter Västerhavspromenade. This scenic Western Sea boardwalk weaves through granite cliffs, offering spectacular views of the endless ocean.

Mariefred

Built around the whimsical Gripsholm Castle, is where the sweet and blissful town of Mariefred can be happily discovered. Get lost in the high ceiling corridors, detailed wood detailing and hidden passages in the Gripsholm Castle that date back over 400 years. After enjoying the charming atmosphere of the city center and strolling the shops and cafes, visitors can hop aboard the historic railway and get a scenic drive of the surrounding landscapes. Cruising by water is also an option by hopping on a boat trip on Lake Mälaren, which offers numerous routes for day trips. Travelers can sit back, relax, and get unreal views at the same time. To soothe the sweet tooth cravings, visitors can take the Steamer Mariefred boat and experience a cake tour of 60 different cake flavors at the famous cake table at Taxinge Castle.

Sweden has so many sweet little towns that make for a mindful and easygoing getaway. In Sweden, one can roam cobblestone streets with a freshly made cinnamon bun in hand. One can also observe historical castles and churches at sunset. Lastly, you can even kayak through an archipelago and watch birds soar above you. Sweden has just the right combination of charm and adventure that makes traveling feel easy and happily addictive.